EarthMind

EarthMind, formerly known as Backyard Abundance, is an Iowa City-based nonprofit that helps people and communities build calm, connection, and resilience through relationships with nature. For more than a decade, the organization has supported gardens, habitats, and nature-based experiences for households, businesses, schools, and spiritual organizations. Its work combines practical ecological skills with a focus on personal well-being, stress reduction, and stronger communities.

EarthMind offers coaching and design guidance for households seeking low-maintenance, resilient landscapes, as well as programs for organizations that want to host skill-building classes or small-group coaching. Its activities include permaculture, gardening, foraging, sustainable living, and nature-based learning. The organization also supports learning gardens, where visitors can find free food, inspiration, and opportunities to learn, and provides guides, books, and design resources to help people create productive, wildlife-friendly outdoor spaces. Classes and events offer hands-on ways to connect with nature, while its portfolio showcases landscape design ideas. Through these services and experiences, EarthMind encourages people to make gardening enjoyable and cultivate thriving landscapes.